Anthony Bourdain, the influential chef and TV personality, sent a poignant final text before his untimely death by suicide in 2018, and the details, revealed in a new book by his former assistant, shed light on his last moments and thoughts.

In Care and Feeding: A Memoir, Laurie Woolever reveals the complex emotions, events, and even a final text message leading up to Bourdain's death, as the Daily Mail reports.

Insight into Bourdain's Last Days

On the eve of his passing, Bourdain was in Kaysersberg, France, staying at the Le Chambard hotel. He was there during the filming of an episode for his popular television series. Bourdain, aged 61 at the time, communicated with his former assistant Woolever, expressing a mix of resilience and uncertainty.

"I’ll live, and we’ll survive," Bourdain texted Laurie Woolever, responding to her concern about his well-being. The message seemed routine yet carried a heavier load, reflecting his ongoing personal struggles. Woolever, who had worked closely with Bourdain for years, was the last person he spoke to.

The backdrop to this conversation was fraught with personal challenges. Photos threatening to trigger a public scandal involving Bourdain's partner, Asia Argento, and a French journalist had recently surfaced.

Bourdain, aware of the imminent publication by the National Enquirer, instructed Woolever to disregard and deflect related press inquiries yet stay informed about the release.

Day Before Untimely Death, Recalled

Despite the brewing storm, Bourdain's schedule for the following day reflected a semblance of normalcy. He had planned several activities back in New York, including a lunch, a haircut, a doctor's appointment, and a private jiu-jitsu session.

However, the reality was starkly different. The next morning, Woolever received the shocking news from Bourdain's agent.

As the world grappled with the loss, his planned schedule underscored the suddenness and tragedy of his suicide.

Argento, who had been Bourdain's partner since 2016, was left devastated. In heart-wrenching statements, she remembered him as her "love, rock, and protector." Her grief was compounded by unfair public accusations and pressure, which she addressed publicly.

Bourdain's Impact and Ongoing Influence

Anthony Bourdain wasn't just a chef. He was a cultural icon who brought the world into homes through his television shows and books.

His 1999 New Yorker essay propelled him into the spotlight, followed by the bestselling book Kitchen Confidential in 2000.

Beyond his culinary expertise, Bourdain was a vocal advocate for social issues, including the #MeToo movement, and often critiqued political figures like then-President Donald Trump. His honest and approachable demeanor earned him respect and admiration worldwide.

Former President Barack Obama and celebrities like Jamie Oliver and Rose McGowan expressed their grief and highlighted his role as a bridge builder and a candid friend to the global community.

Lessons to Learn

The story of Anthony Bourdain’s final days offers several valuable insights:

1. Even those who seem the strongest can struggle with deep personal issues. It's vital to maintain open channels of communication with loved ones.
2. The impact of public scrutiny and media pressure can exacerbate personal troubles. Respecting privacy in times of crisis is crucial.
3. Lastly, understanding mental health resources can be a lifesaver. It's imperative to know and share information about mental health hotlines and support networks.

While these steps can provide some level of protection, it's essential to remember that crime and personal crises can affect anyone, and victim-blaming must be avoided.

Why This Story Matters

This narrative extends beyond the culinary world. It underscores the often-unseen pressures faced by public figures and the profound impacts of mental health issues. Anthony Bourdain's legacy teaches us about the power of storytelling and the importance of honest dialogue about mental health and wellness.

Anthony Bourdain’s last days, as narrated by Laurie Woolever in her book, invites reflection on his profound influence and tragic end. It implores us to remember his vision of cultural connection through cuisine and to think critically about how we address mental health publicly and privately.